Approved Document F - Ventilation

This document covers means of ventilation within new dwellings, new buildings other than dwellings and existing buildings. The types of ventilation covered includes, mechanical, passive stack, background and purge (rapid).

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The requirements in this edition of Approved Document F are as follows:

F1(1) - Part F Means of ventilation
There shall be adequate means of ventilation provided for people in the building.

F1(2) - Part F Means of ventilation
Fixed systems for mechanical ventilation and any associated controls must be commissioned by testing and adjusting as necessary to secure that the objective referred to in sub-paragraph (1) is met.

Limits on application
Requirement F1 does not apply to a building or space within a building:
(a) into which people do not normally go; or
(b) which is used solely for storage; or
(c) which is a garage used solely in connection with a single dwelling.

Paragraph 3.4 was withdrawn and replaced by the following:
3.4 Where the original windows were fitted with trickle ventilators the replacement windows should include them and they should be sized as set-out in paragraph 3.6. It would be good practice to fit trickle ventilators (or equivalent), with accessible controls, in all replacement windows to help with control of condensation and improve indoor air quality.

The opportunity was also taken to make consequential changes, correct minor errors in the text, and make clarifications in paragraph 1.4 and Annex B.

Quick links to other Approved Documents

The regulations cover all aspects of construction and are constantly reviewed. The guidance documents referred to as 'Approved Documents' contain practical ways and explanations of how to comply with the functional requirements of the Building Regulations.